Mental Health Foundations - 4 week Certificate Program

MENTAL HEALTH FOUNDATIONS (4-WEEK CERTIFICATE COURSE) 

Asynchronous Learning -Online on your time.  An instructor will be marking your work and is available during assigned times.  

DURATION: 100 hours (25 hours per week) ONLINE  

Entry Requirements:  

No educational requirements, however is suited for individuals that have some previous knowledge or desire to learn about Mental Health Care.  Excellent for Front Line Workers- HCA, DSW, PSW, Family members ETC.   

Program Description: The "Foundations of Mental Health" is a comprehensive 4-week certificate course designed to provide participants with a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts, key disorders, treatment interventions, and ethical considerations in the mental health field. This course integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring participants are equipped with essential skills for their roles in mental health care. This course is directed at frontline workers including Family Members.   

Course Overview  

Upon completion of the "Foundations of Mental Health" certificate course, participants will: 

Demonstrate Comprehensive Understanding: 

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the historical evolution, contemporary perspectives, and emerging concepts in the field of mental health. 

Identify and Classify Mental Health Disorders: 

• Identify and differentiate between various mental health disorders, utilizing the DSM-5 and ICD-10 for accurate classification. 
• Evaluate the importance and limitations of diagnostic criteria in mental health classification. 

Develop Treatment Plans: 

• Formulate and propose personalized treatment plans for individuals with specific mental health disorders. 
• Evaluate and recommend appropriate evidence-based treatment approaches, incorporating therapeutic modalities and considering the role of medication. 

Utilize Resources for Continuous Learning: 

• Utilize diverse resources effectively to stay current with the latest developments and understanding of mental health disorders. 
• Develop a personalized strategy for continuous learning, professional development, and staying informed in the dynamic field of mental health. 

Navigate Cultural Competence and Diversity: 

• Recognize and articulate the impact of culture, ethnicity, gender, and other factors on mental health. 
• Apply strategies for providing culturally competent and inclusive mental health care, fostering an environment that values diversity. 

Navigate Ethical Considerations: 

• Engage in discussions about ethical considerations in mental health rehabilitation. 
• Analyze and navigate complex ethical scenarios using ethical decision-making frameworks, ensuring the rights and well-being of individuals with mental health issues. 

Respond Effectively to Crisis Situations: 

• Identify signs indicating a mental health crisis. 
• Develop and implement effective, ethical responses during mental health crises, including the creation of crisis intervention plans tailored to individual needs. 

Promote Inclusivity and Ethical Practices: 

• Foster an inclusive and diverse environment in mental health practices, acknowledging and respecting the unique needs of individuals from diverse backgrounds. 
• Demonstrate ethical practices in therapeutic relationships and rehabilitation processes, upholding the principles of confidentiality, informed consent, and client autonomy. 

Apply Knowledge Through Practical Case Studies: 

• Apply theoretical knowledge acquired throughout the program to practical case studies, demonstrating the ability to integrate concepts into real-world scenarios. 
• Engage in interactive case discussions to enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and application of learned concepts  

Demonstrate Professional Growth: 

• Reflect on personal and professional growth throughout the course, identifying areas for further development. 
• Articulate a commitment to continuous improvement, acknowledging the dynamic nature of the mental health field and the importance of ongoing learning. 

Course content :  

Week 1: Introduction to Current Concepts in Mental Health (25 Hours) 

This course solidifies mental health concepts, combining historical perspectives with a contemporary lens. Participants will engage in two sessions that span the evolution of mental health, from its historical roots to the present-day challenges faced by individuals and the mental health community. 

Week 2: Understanding Key Mental Health Disorders (25hours) 

In this session, participants will explore the current trends and challenges within the mental health field. Through a critical analysis of present-day issues, participants will gain an understanding of the dynamic landscape of mental health. Special attention will be given to societal attitudes and their profound impact on mental health awareness. 

Week 3: Treatment Interventions and Resources (25 hours) 

This course explores treatment interventions for mental health disorders and equips participants with the resources for continuous learning and professional development. 

WEEK 4:  Diversity, Ethics, and Crisis Intervention (25 Hours) 

This course is dedicated to exploring the pivotal aspects of diversity, ethics, and crisis intervention in the context of mental health. Participants will delve into the complexities of working with diverse populations, ethical considerations in mental health rehabilitation, and strategies for effective crisis intervention.